Last updated: 2026-04-20
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Report
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA scores 45/100 ("Mixed"). With 149 recalls and 318 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
Recalls
149
Complaints
318
Complaint Rate
31.5per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$908
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,400–$2,550
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (75)
- ENGINE (50)
- POWER TRAIN (23)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is year 3 of the Second generation (C118; 2019).
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2023.
- 2nd generation CLA (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2019: Second generation (C118; 2019) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2021: This Model Year
2021 is year 3 of the Second generation (C118; 2019).
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
A 45/100 score puts the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA in the "Mixed" tier. Buyers should approach with eyes open. 2021 is year 3 of the Second generation (C118; 2019).
Complaint volume sits above average at 318 owner complaints alongside 149 recalls. Issues in electrical system (80) tend to be the costly ones.
Treat an extended warranty as non-negotiable and put electrical system (80) at the top of the inspection checklist.
Compared to the 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA, which scored 7 points lower. See also the 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
- +Well-established generation
Cons
- −Below-average reliability score
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (75 complaints)
- −1 fatality report in owner complaints
- −8 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA With
2021 Audi A4
Reliability: 71/100
2021 BMW 3-Series
Reliability: 67/100
2021 Lexus IS
Reliability: 83/100
2021 Tesla Model 3
Reliability: 48/100
2021 Audi A5
Reliability: 71/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 149 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (75)
- ENGINE (50)
Recall Overview
149
recalls on record
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA has 149 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
31.5
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 16.9
Safety Incidents
12
Crashes
8
Fires
30
Injuries
1
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA Recall Details
149 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STRUCTURE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2020-2021 GLB250 vehicles. The wheel arch covers on the front fenders might not have been installed correctly, allow them to detach.
Consequence
Detached wheel arch covers can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the installation of the front wheel arch covers and correct them as necessary, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040015.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 S 500, Maybach S 580 4MATIC, 2021-2023 S 580 4MATIC, 2022 S 680 4MATIC, and 2023 S 580e 4MATIC vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid.
Consequence
A brake fluid leak can extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025030007.
AIR BAGS
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S500, S580, and Maybach S580 vehicles. The air bag control unit software may deactivate the occupant recognition control unit, resulting in a deactivated front passenger air bag.
Consequence
A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the air bag control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2021. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021100010. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Showing 10 of 68 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
149 recalls and a score of 45 — check any 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA before buying
With a below-average reliability score, a VIN check is especially important. Uncover hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that data alone can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 11.1%
Safety Technologies
Mercedes-Benz CLARepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$908
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| No Start Diagnosis | $198 – $291 |
| Purge Valve Replacement | $187 – $229 |
| AC Compressor Clutch Replacement | $1,321 – $1,452 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover | $61 – $90 |
| Washer Fluid Level Sensor Replacement | $226 – $326 |
| Engine Mount Replacement | $2,560 – $3,400 |
| Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing | $198 – $291 |
| Ignition Coil Replacement | $237 – $294 |
| Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement | $639 – $704 |
| Pinion Seal Replacement | $209 – $259 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
27–29 MPG
Running cost: $3,300–$3,450/yr
Fuel + repair
24–25 city / 33–35 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLA250 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM7) | 25 | 35 | 29 | $2,400 |
| CLA250 4matic 2.0L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM7) | 24 | 33 | 27 | $2,550 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA.
Inspect for transmission shudder or failure, especially under 22,000 miles
Check for engine misfires or rough idling around 35,000 miles
Test 48V battery functionality, especially if under 3,400 miles
Verify sunroof integrity for potential shattering
Test infotainment system for freezing or errors
Check for engine warning lights or unusual noises
Inspect tires and rims for cracks or excessive wear
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA Common Problems by Component
318 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
75 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 48V hybrid battery in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA, often leading to sudden loss of power and vehicle stalling. Symptoms commonly described include warning lights for battery and engine malfunctions, smoke, and in some cases, fires. These problems typically arise within the first few thousand miles, with some owners mentioning occurrences as early as 3,400 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes, fires, and near-miss incidents due to sudden deceleration. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring electrical issues and their potential impact on vehicle safety and reliability.
ENGINE
50 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report engine issues, particularly involving cylinder misfires and cylinder head failures. Typical symptoms include the check engine light illuminating, rough idling, loss of power, and engine stalling, sometimes with no warning. These issues are often reported around 35,000 to 100,000 miles, with some owners experiencing failures as early as 22,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, with reports of the engine shutting off unexpectedly, posing risks during driving, although only one incident involves a crash. Buyers should be aware of potential high repair costs and recurring issues noted by multiple owners, especially concerning the M254 and M264 engines.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
40 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA report several recurring issues, notably involving the vehicle's electrical systems and structural integrity. Complaints frequently mention the sudden shattering of the sunroof, with multiple instances described as sounding like an explosion, which could pose a risk of injury from falling glass. Additionally, there are reports of engine issues, such as rough idling, loss of power, and engine vibrations, sometimes resulting in the need for significant repairs like cylinder head replacements. These problems often occur at varied mileages but are sometimes noted around 30,000 to 68,000 miles. Safety implications are evident with reports of crashes due to sudden vehicle deceleration and instances of the vehicle unexpectedly switching into neutral while driving, which could lead to loss of control.
POWER TRAIN (23 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
23 complaintsOwners report several powertrain-related issues with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA, particularly involving transmission and engine failures. Complaints frequently mention sudden loss of propulsion, with vehicles going into "limp" mode or becoming completely inoperable, often at highway speeds, posing a significant safety risk. Typical symptoms include warning lights, inability to shift gears, and unexpected shutdowns, with some incidents occurring at mileage as low as 15,000 miles. Multiple owners describe problems with the transmission control unit and electrical system failures affecting the vehicle's drivability. These issues often lead to dangerous situations, such as being stranded in traffic or near-miss accidents, making it crucial for prospective buyers to consider these patterns when evaluating the vehicle.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (10 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues with the vehicle speed control, notably involving sudden deceleration and loss of acceleration. Complaints often describe the vehicle entering a reduced-power state or misreading traffic signs, leading to abrupt speed changes, particularly when using the cruise control or traffic sign assist features. These issues are reported across various mileages, with some incidents occurring at as low as 976 miles. Safety implications include at least one crash with injuries and multiple instances of dangerous speed reductions in traffic. Buyers should be aware of these recurring speed control issues, as they could impact driving safety and reliability.
SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA's service brakes, including brakes not engaging properly, unexpected braking, and unusual noises. Complaints frequently mention brakes failing to stop the vehicle, leading to crashes in some cases. Several reports describe incidents where the brakes lock up or the vehicle unexpectedly shuts off, with mileage ranging from 1,194 to 24,001 at the time of failure. Safety implications are significant, with two crashes reported, one resulting in four injuries. Prospective buyers should be aware of these brake-related issues, as they may impact vehicle safety and reliability.
SUSPENSION (6 complaints)
SUSPENSION
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA frequently report issues with the vehicle's suspension system, particularly involving the front right ball joint. Complaints describe sudden separation of the ball joint from the lower control arm, leading to loss of control and, in some cases, crashes. These incidents often occur without prior warning and at varying speeds, with one report involving a fire and multiple injuries. Additionally, some owners note unusual noises and sensations of tire slipping, with mileage as low as 3,000 miles. Prospective buyers should be aware of these safety implications, including potential crashes and mechanical failures.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA report issues related to air bag malfunctions and warning indicators. Complaints frequently mention air bag warning lights and associated system failures, such as blind spot assist and active brake assist becoming inoperative. One report details a crash where the steering wheel air bag split open upon deployment, resulting in injuries and burns from the air bags on the floor. These issues are observed at low mileages, with one incident occurring around 3,000 miles. Potential buyers should be aware of these air bag system concerns and their implications for vehicle safety.
SEAT BELTS (3 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA report issues with seat belts, particularly with the retractor mechanism not locking on the driver’s side, which leads to a feeling of insecurity. A significant complaint involves a crash where the driver's seatbelt failed to engage during a high-speed collision, resulting in an injury. This incident did not show prior warnings or symptoms, and no subsequent confirmation of the issue by a dealer is reported. Another complaint mentions a malfunctioning third-row buckle latch at approximately 25,000 miles, though it pertains to a different Mercedes-Benz model. Safety implications are noted with the crash-related complaint, highlighting potential risks associated with seat belt failures.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA report issues related to steering stability, with a common problem being a persistent pull to the left and degraded handling. Symptoms typically emerge after suspension repairs, with no dashboard alerts present, and require constant steering correction to maintain lane position. Another issue involves loud clunking and cracking noises from the front axle area, particularly at low speeds, which some owners associate with potential safety risks. These complaints suggest a pattern of steering-related problems that may warrant further inspection, especially for used car buyers considering this model.
When Do 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz CLA Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mercedes-Benz CLA Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mercedes-Benz CLA year is 2026 with a reliability score of 64/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (56/100) and 2018 (46/100).
Mercedes-Benz CLA Years to Avoid
The worst Mercedes-Benz CLA year is 2022 with a score of 38/100, primarily due to electrical system (47) issues.
Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Score Trend
Mercedes-Benz CLA reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 48/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 46/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 44/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 45/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 38/100 | Risky |
| 2024 | 44/100 | Mixed |
| 2026 | 64/100 | Good |
Mercedes-Benz CLA Reliability Compared to Other Years
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA Common Questions
10 questions from 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA owners.
Disconnecting the Rack and pinion from the steering
Hello, I'm trying to disconnect the Rack and pinion from the steering as I have found a leak on the line that connects the 2 parts of it and need to remove it to look into it further, my issue is that even though I have unbolted all the bolts I don't understand how it will come off the steering shaft, do I just need to pull or do I need to unbolt something specific.
2000 mb E320 car will not crank with key fob
Ok car ignition switch operates,lights on dash and key fob locks and unlocks opens trunk but will not crank the car we have checked and manually operated start relay but no crank and while cranking no spark what gives alarm works tried locking and unlocking all tried leaving key on for 20 minutes nothing changed More than a week
No crank no start
My car was running fine until it got down to freezing point outside and then I went out to start the next day and my dash lights came on and my windows work but I have to jump the starter relay to start the car but it won’t shift outta 1st gear and my brake lights are staying on until I turn the ignition switch off but everything was fine b for the battery went dead and I changed the starter relay and still no crank no start….. Jumping the relay for the starter starts it but don’t shift outta 1st gear More than a month
Tumping Noise back right side
When driving slow and coming to a stop, my car make tumping noises, but when you drive at normal speed, it drives like a baby
New battery
My car won’t start when i turn the key over it don’t do nothing don’t make a sound but if i jump the starter relay with the car in the on position it’ll start but then when u drive it it won’t shift outta 1st gear my break lights stay on until i turn the car off all my dash lights come on like there supposed to and i got a check engine light on a abs lights stay comes on a bsa or something like that light comes on my srs light comes on and none of them turn off until i turn the key off all my windows work radio works seat memory still works and i haven’t had a battery on it in about a month a good one I’ve tried a couple diferent ones on it and none of the had enough juice to do anything but turn ones on it my dash lights and then it would die out i even tried jump starting the batterys but it still wouldn’t start the car the only way i can start it is by jumping the starter relay and i never had any of these problems until i changed the battery ooooo and my key fob isn’t working right When i jump start the starter relay makes it better but don’t shift outta 1st gear More than a month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA?
How many recalls does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA have?
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Mercedes-Benz CLA.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Mercedes-Benz Models
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Score: 64/100
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Score: 82/100
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Score: 76/100
Mercedes-Benz EQE
Score: 61/100
Mercedes-Benz EQS
Score: 61/100
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Score: 77/100
Browse More 2021 Vehicles
2021 Lexus ES
Score: 88/100
2021 KIA Sedona
Score: 88/100
2021 Lexus RX
Score: 86/100
2021 Honda HR-V
Score: 86/100
2021 Nissan Frontier
Score: 84/100
2021 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue